July 4 group pulls within $2,500 of fundraising goal

As the Elk River Independence Day Committee closes in on its fundraising goals, the program for the event is beginning to come into focus. About $2,500 is still needed to be raised, however, to solidify the group’s decision to order another $15,000 show.

“We think the community will come through,” said Deb Urista, a member of the committee.

At this year’s event there will be a patriotic program and full slate of entertainment. The headline act is The Shane Martin Band, with his show leading right up to the fireworks shortly after 10 p.m.

This year’s announcer will be WCCO radio broadcaster and Elk River resident Dan Hertsgaard, who in addition to being the master of ceremonies, will provide a tribute to local law enforcement.

This year’s festivities will get going at 4 p.m. sharp with a flag raising by Elk River Scouts and the Elk River Police Honor Guard. There are plans in the works for guest compelling speakers, a reading of the Declaration of Independence Preamble and the three-round volley by the honor guard.

A North Memorial air ambulance helicopter is also scheduled land between 4 and 5 p.m. to add to the excitement of the Fourth of July celebration. Kids will be able to see the inside of the aircraft.

The winners of the Sandhill Photography Club Independence Day Powered by Nature photography contest will be announced, as will the winners of the Reading Frenzy patriotic essay contest. The deadline for the photo contest is June 19 and the deadline for the writing contest is June 29. For more information, visit www.elkriver4th.com.

The second annual Elk River Idol contest will take the stage at 5 p.m.

There will also be plenty to eat and do on the grounds with the return of a giant water slide, bingo for adults by the VFW and bingo for kids by the Boys and Girls Club.

There will also be a game trailer, a climbing wall by the Army National Guard and kids games by District 728 Early Childhood Family Education and Community Education.

The Boys and Girls Club will be open 4-7 p.m. for the event.

The Shane Martin Band will headline the show starting at 8 p.m. and The Wrong Omar Band featuring Joe Shaheen and special guest Becky Shaheen will have the stage 6-8 p.m.